Anil Madhav Dave played key role in lifting Jallikattu ban: Pon Radhakrishnan

CHENNAI: BJP senior and Union minister of state for road transport, highways and shipping Pon Radhakrishnan who expressed shock over the sudden demise of Union minister Anil Madhav Dave, said the latter had played a key role in revoking the ban on jallikattu, the traditional bull taming sport of TN.

Recalling the efforts of Dave in revoking the ban on jallikattu, Mr Radhakrishnan said on Thursday "Dave was instrumental in holding jallikattu in Tamil Nadu this year by extending his full support to Tamils." He had met Dave thrice on a single day on the jallikattu issue in New Delhi, he added.

Expressing shock and grief over the demise, Mr Radhakrishnan said Dave's death is an irreparable loss to the country. "Dave had dedicated himself for the nation's cause," Mr Radhakrishnan said. Pointing out that commitment, dedication, quality thinking and easy understanding of the problems were the special qualities of Dave, he said, "I express my heartfelt condolences to bereaved family members and would pray the Almighty for his soul to rest in peace."

CM Edappadi K. Palanisami also expressed shock over the death of Dave and said he was saddened to know about his death and expressed his condolence to the Central Minister's family members.